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The Foundation Board recognized its ten outstanding past chairs by establishing the UVU Foundation Ambassador Endowed Scholarship. The student recipients of this scholarship become UVU Foundation Ambassadors, charged with representing the institution at key events throughout the year. The scholarship is awarded to ten UVU students, one in the name of each board chair to honor the chairs' dedication and loyalty to the University.
The UVU Foundation Ambassador program aims to support the work of the UVU Foundation and the Division of Institutional Advancement through select students serving as the face of UVU and telling the story of the University.
The program assembles a group of student leaders dedicated to UVU and its mission and eager to develop the skills for ambassadorship, to represent UVU, and to assist its administration. As a result of their participation, these students will become better prepared to serve in their professions and as leaders in their communities.
The program will establish and maintain a specially trained group of UVU students equipped to effectively represent the University in a strategic and uniformly branded way, with a goal of engaging current and prospective donors, friends, alumni, and VIPs. Ambassadorship will provide an experiential opportunity for students and will support UVU's mission of engaged learning.
Originally from Stony Brook, New York, Adrianna Oliva chose UVU for its unique digital audio program, scholarships, and the chance to live near the mountains. Moving across the country was intimidating, but she quickly found support from peers and professors. “The openness and understanding of the professors here are what I love most about UVU. The faculty are really on your side.”
Adrianna has served as professional development chair for the Women of UVU, where she discovered her passion for leadership and service. She also enjoys participating in the Outdoor Adventure Center’s activities, such as hiking and camping, as well as attending concerts in Salt Lake City. Her mentors have helped connect her to hands-on opportunities at the Noorda Center, where she works as an audio technician, and she has also taken on freelance projects as a boom operator and dialogue editor.
As a Foundation Ambassador, Adrianna is eager to share her story and highlight the opportunities UVU provides. After graduation, she hopes to pursue a career in live sound or sound design for games, television, or theater.
Originally from Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico, Ana Caballero Ferreyro chose UVU for its welcoming environment and strong emphasis on both academics and student involvement. As an international student, she found a sense of belonging and a community that encouraged her to grow as a leader and global citizen. “What was once a barrier, expressing myself in a second language, became one of my greatest strengths. It taught me persistence, adaptability, and courage.”
On campus, Ana serves on the UVU Global Council, where she helps promote cultural understanding and global awareness. Off campus, she has worked with nonprofits on projects supporting vulnerable communities, deepening her passion for service. She credits her mentors for encouraging her to pursue opportunities in leadership and public speaking that she never imagined possible.
As a Foundation Ambassador, Ana hopes to share her experiences as an international student and inspire others to get involved and aim high. After graduation, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in clinical trauma psychology, with the long-term goal of working in trauma response to support individuals and communities affected by crises worldwide.
Originally from Bogotá, Colombia, Ana Chicuasuque first came to Utah to improve her English and never expected to pursue a degree. After enrolling in UVU’s English Language Learning program, she quickly fell in love with the university’s welcoming environment and resources for international students. “UVU completely changed my life, and for that, I will be forever grateful.”
Ana has embraced leadership opportunities at UVU. She serves as president of the International Student Council, helping international students feel supported and connected. Professionally, she works as a Project Manager at Green House, UVU’s student-run marketing agency, gaining hands-on experience with clients while building her career in digital advertising. She also serves as a Foundation Ambassador, one of her most rewarding roles, where she shares her story with donors to help future students access the same opportunities she has received.
As a non-traditional student and a second-language learner, Ana has overcome challenges with the support of faculty and mentors who encouraged her to step into leadership and believe in her potential. After graduation, she hopes to work in digital marketing for major brands and eventually start her own agency, while continuing to give back to her community.
Originally from West Jordan, Utah, Daisy Nielson chose UVU after discovering scholarship opportunities that made higher education possible. As a first-generation student, navigating the application and registration process was a challenge, but UVU’s resources and supportive community helped her succeed. “My mentors taught me through real-world experiences and used their networks to help me find jobs. They have inspired me and pushed me to see what I am capable of achieving.”
At UVU, Daisy is deeply involved in leadership and service. She has served as a Resident Community Leader, Recruitment Ambassador, Foundation Ambassador, and Cheerleading Coach. These roles have allowed her to share her story, mentor peers, and create opportunities for future students.
As a Foundation Ambassador, Daisy is passionate about helping others access the same opportunities she has received. After graduation, she hopes to work as a social media manager for a nonprofit organization, combining her skills in digital marketing with her desire to make a positive impact.
Originally from Ambato, Ecuador, Diego Martinez Cardenas first saw studying abroad as an impossible dream until an English teacher encouraged him to investigate universities in the United States. With his mentor’s guidance, Diego discovered UVU and was drawn to its hands-on learning approach, welcoming environment, and strong support for international students. “I am where I am today thanks to UVU. It’s more than just a university; it’s been a community that has transformed my life.”
At UVU, Diego serves as a mentor and senior leader in the International Student Council, supporting nearly 500 international students as they transition into campus life. He also volunteers as a Trip Leader for the Outdoor Adventure Center, leading hiking and camping trips, and participates in community service projects and outdoor activities off campus. His most meaningful experiences have included mentoring fellow students, giving tours, and taking part in leadership programs such as the Presidential Internship.
As a Foundation Ambassador, Diego is passionate about giving back by sharing his story and inspiring other students, especially those from international backgrounds, to pursue their goals. After graduation, he plans to build a career at the intersection of technology and business, ideally in finance or digital transformation, with the long-term goal of earning an MBA and leading innovation that creates opportunities for others.
Utah Valley University was not always part of Eli Holdaway’s plans, but that changed when he experienced UVU’s inclusive culture, impactful professors, and unique learning opportunities. “After one semester, I began to fall in love with UVU and its culture. I felt seen as an individual. I had always heard stories from students attending other universities where they felt like their professors didn’t care about them, but I felt the opposite here.”
Eli has been part of the first cohort of the UVU Sandbox program and has served as a Foundation Ambassador, Wolverine Ambassador, and member of the Wolverine Fund. His involvement in these leadership opportunities has given him direction and strengthened his skills in communication and collaboration. Mentors on campus have also helped him connect with external programs such as Utah Innovation Fund, Convoi Ventures, and University Growth Fund, broadening his network and career vision.
As a Foundation Ambassador, Eli is eager to share his story and represent the opportunities available at UVU. After graduation, he hopes to work with early-stage startups, either on the operational or investment side.
Originally from La’ie, Hawai’i, Janessa Michelle Purcell chose UVU after moving to Utah. She was drawn to the smaller class sizes that allow for meaningful connections with professors and the balance of being close to family while still gaining independence. “Overcoming challenges with the support of mentors and resources has shown me that I can achieve goals I never thought possible.”
At UVU, Janessa has taken on significant leadership roles. She serves as president of the Utah International Mountain Forum, advocating for sustainable mountain development and presenting at the United Nations 68th and 69th sessions of the Commission on the Status of Women. She is also vice president of both the Foreign Affairs Club and UVU Rotaract, where she hosts foreign dignitaries, organizes events, and advances cultural diplomacy. She has worked as a Direct Service Fellow at UVU’s Center for Social Impact, planning service projects and teaching students the importance of meaningful service. Beyond campus, she contributes to the Orem-Lindon Rotary Club and serves as the Foreign Relations Administrator at Malawi ESP, a nonprofit supporting entrepreneurship in Malawi, Africa.
Her mentors have been instrumental in shaping her path, especially Dr. Baktybek Abdrisaev, whose guidance has helped her pursue opportunities such as presenting research at the United Nations and at the University of Oxford. These experiences have strengthened her passion for international relations and inspired her to pursue a Juris Doctor in International Law.
As a Foundation Ambassador, Janessa is eager to give back by sharing her journey and representing the many opportunities UVU provides. After graduation, she hopes to continue her work with the United Nations, combining her legal ambitions with her commitment to international cooperation.
Originally from Montecristi, Dominican Republic, Milinés Sabala Veras came to UVU as a first-generation international student seeking both academic growth and a welcoming, diverse environment. She found a university that offered not only strong programs but also opportunities to get involved and contribute to campus life. “Each difficulty I’ve overcome has made me a more resilient, creative leader, and I appreciate the opportunity to embody UVU’s mission and values.”
Milinés has taken on leadership roles across campus, including serving as president of the Caribbean Club Cultural Association, International Student Mentor, and Zone Manager at The Zone. She has volunteered with Multicultural Student Services, the Clubs Ambassadors Office, and Global Engagement, helping to organize large cultural events and collaborative programs with student organizations. These experiences have allowed her to create community, celebrate diversity, and help students feel connected.
As a Foundation Ambassador, Milinés is passionate about encouraging other students, especially international and first-generation students, to step out of their comfort zones and seize new opportunities. After graduation, she plans to become a nurse and ultimately combine her medical career with humanitarian work to serve both local and global communities.
Originally from Bamako, Mali, Mohamed Toure has also lived in Niger and the Republic of Congo before coming to Utah to pursue higher education. He chose UVU for its welcoming environment, strong support systems, and opportunities for growth. “UVU’s commitment to excellence and inclusivity inspired my desire to explore the opportunities it offered. I am committed to being a driving force for positive change and a proud ambassador of UVU’s mission and values.”
At UVU, Mohamed is active in leadership and service. He participates in First Gen Crew, where he helps students access resources to succeed, and has engaged in a variety of campus events and volunteer opportunities. Beyond campus, he enjoys playing soccer with local teams and expanding his engineering skills through side projects and mentorship from professionals in the field. Previously, he has also contributed to the Wolverine Ambassador and Lead program and organized community events such as Ramadan celebrations.
As a Foundation Ambassador, Mohamed is passionate about sharing stories of resilience and highlighting the opportunities UVU provides. After graduation, he plans to pursue a career in civil engineering focused on infrastructure and community development, with the long-term goal of working internationally to help developing areas, especially in Mali, build stronger and safer communities.
Originally from Ukraine, Olga Liu first learned about UVU at a college tour event and was drawn to its welcoming environment and opportunities to get involved. Since then, she has embraced leadership and service roles that have enriched her college experience. “UVU is home for me. It has helped me become the person that I am today, and I am so grateful for this experience.”
On campus, Olga has been actively involved with clubs and organizations such as CET Marketing team, the Product Team (ProdUX), and International Student Council (ISC). She also serves as a Foundation Ambassador, where one of her most memorable experiences has been participating in the President’s Scholarship Ball. These opportunities have allowed her to meet students from around the world, connect with mentors, and gain hands-on experiences that shaped her academic and career goals as a returning UVU student.
Olga credits her mentors for encouraging her to pursue opportunities in public speaking, leadership, and professional development. After graduation, she hopes to combine her skills in web design and event planning to create her own bridal and beauty business.
Originally from Cologne, Germany, and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Skye Kaiser first learned about UVU through missionaries from her church. What began as a distant possibility has turned into a life-changing experience. “UVU has become my first ever home. The people here are my family.”
Skye’s journey has not been without challenges. Financial struggles once made her fear she would have to leave school, but receiving the Foundation Ambassador Scholarship made it possible for her to continue her education. With additional support services, she was able to succeed and thrive. She credits her mentors for guiding her toward scholarships, resources, and opportunities, and for believing in her when she struggled to believe in herself.
Outside of academics, Skye is part of a metal band, combining her passion for music with her studies. As a Foundation Ambassador, she hopes to inspire other students who doubt their potential to see what they can accomplish. After graduation, she plans to continue working at UVU while preparing for law school or a career in diplomacy.
